How to Cut Chicken Tenderloins or Chicken Strips | Quick & Simple Method | Step-by-Step Guide

 CHICKEN TENDERLOINS OR CHICKEN STRIPS 

About chicken strips or chicken tenderloin

The 'tender' in chicken tenders comes from the chicken tenderloin, a small, boneless strip of meat located beneath the chicken breast. This cut is naturally more tender than other parts of the chicken, which is why they’re often considered the best cut for making chicken strips. Each chicken breast contains one tenderloin on either side. Due to its delicate texture, the tenderloin is one of the most tender parts of the chicken, making it perfect for quick cooking methods. Not only is it a versatile and healthy option, but it's also a protein that’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Recipe by: cooktwirl

Photography by: cooktwirl

 

3 Reasons You’ll Love Chicken Tenders

High in Lean Protein: Chicken strips are an excellent source of lean protein, making them ideal for building and repairing muscle. Packed with essential amino acids, they support overall health, help maintain muscle mass, and keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Quick and Easy: Due to their small size, chicken tenders cook quickly, making them perfect for busy nights when you need a fast and easy meal. They’re ideal for grilling, frying, or stir-frying, and when cooked properly, they stay juicy and tender.

Perfect for Meal Prep: Chicken tenderloins are a great option for meal prepping since they cook quickly and store well in the fridge or freezer. You can make large batches ahead of time and use them in a variety of meals throughout the week, from salads to wraps to rice bowls.

 

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

 

Recipe Step-by-Step

 

Step-1

Place the whole chicken breast flat on the cutting board, with the breast side facing up.

Step-2

Turn the chicken breast at a slight angle to begin cutting.

Step-3

Hold the chicken breast in place with one hand, resting your palm firmly on top to keep it steady.

Step-4

Slowly move the knife in a gentle up-and-down motion to cut the chicken breast lengthwise, splitting it into two halves.

Step-5

Flip the chicken breast pieces over.

Step-6

Take one piece of the breast and locate the tenderloin, which is a smaller strip of meat that is attached beneath the breast.

Step-7

Using the knife, gently separate the tenderloin from the rest of the chicken breast. Carefully cut along the edge where the tenderloin connects to the breast, cutting through it lengthwise.

Step-8

Repeat the same process for the other piece of chicken breast, gently separating the tenderloin from the breast meat.

Step-9

Inspect the tenderloin for any tiny bones or sinew. Use your knife to carefully trim them away, leaving a clean, smooth strip of meat. Cut as close to the bone as possible without removing too much flesh from the chicken breast to fully separate the tenderloin. While this step is optional, it can help create a cleaner, more polished presentation.

Step-10

The chicken tenderloins or chicken strips are now ready to cook.

 

Watch the Recipe Video👇

 

Tips

For safety, always put on disposable gloves🧤before handling the chicken breast. Be sure to dispose of the gloves properly after use and wash your hands thoroughly.

A non-slip cutting board is essential for safety, as a slippery surface increases the risk of the🔪knife slipping. To keep the board stable and prevent it from sliding while you cut, place a kitchen towel or non-slip mat underneath.

If possible, it's best to have two separate cutting boards—one for raw meat 🥩and one for🌿vegetables. Never use the same cutting board for both unless it has been thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Doing so helps prevent cross-contamination and ensures food safety.

Each chicken breast contains two tenderloins, so it's a good idea to cut multiple breasts at once and freeze the tenderloins in portions. This can save time when you're cooking in the future. For example, if you need six tenderloins, you'll need at least three chicken breasts.

Either cook the tenderloins immediately or store them for later use by placing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. If you plan to use it within 1-2 days, refrigerate them.

 

 

Equipment's Used for the Recipe

 

Disposable Gloves

Sharp Knife

Cutting board

Kitchen Towels

Bowl or Plate

Airtight container or Resealable plastic bag

 

Conclusion:

When working with chicken tenderloins, use a sharp knife for clean, precise cuts and always wear disposable gloves to maintain hygiene and prevent cross-contamination. Cutting the chicken yourself gives you better control over portion sizes, quality, ensuring freshness and helps save money. Whether you're meal prepping or making a quick dinner, mastering this skill is key to enjoying flavorful meals. I love using chicken tenders in many recipes! If you've tried this method, I’d love to hear how it turned out—share your experience in the comments below. What’s your favorite way to use tenderloin?